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The emergence of infectious diseases of zoonotic origin highlights the need to understand social practices at the animal-human interface. This study provides a qualitative account of interactions between humans and wild animals in predominantly Mende villages of southern Sierra Leone. We conducted fieldwork over 4 months including participant and direct observations, semi-structured interviews (n = 47), spontaneously occurring focus group discussions (n = 12), school essays and informal interviews to describe behaviours that may serve as pathways for zoonotic infection. In this region, hunting is the primary form of contact with wild animals. We describe how these interactions are shaped by socio-cultural contexts, including opportunities to access economic resources and by social obligations and constraints. Our research suggests that the potential for exposure to zoonotic pathogens is more widely distributed across different age, gender and social groups than previously appreciated. We highlight the role of children in hunting, an age group that has previously not been discussed in the context of hunting. The breadth of the "at risk" population forces reconsideration of how we conceptualize, trace and monitor pathogen exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the potential contributions of anthropology to the study of viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs), such as Lassa fever and Ebola Virus Disease. The authors argue that while anthropologists have already made important contributions to understanding local beliefs and practices related to VHF transmission, there is a need for a broader understanding of the social factors involved. They suggest that anthropological research should focus on the social relationships between humans, animals, and objects, as well as the material and symbolic dimensions of domestic spaces. This expanded understanding of the "social" could provide valuable insights for improving interventions to reduce VHF transmission and make them more acceptable to affected communities. [Extracted from the article]

A correction to the article "Participation of women and children in hunting activities in Sierra Leone and implications for control of zoonotic infections," published in a previous issue is presented.